FRU approaches Whippy, Nauga

TAILEVU rugby coach Lance Whippy and Esala Nauga of Nadroga have been approached by the Fiji Rugby Union to guide the Fiji Warriors team to the Pacific Rugby Cup competition next month.

Nauga, the Nadroga mentor, has proven his worth at domestic level, having guided the Stallions to scoop both provincial silverware —the Digicel Cup and the prestigious Farebrother-Sullivan Trophy — last season.

"Nothing has been confirmed yet as who will replace Inoke Male but we have approached both coaches."

Last year Male guided Fiji to its first ever Pacific Nations Cup victory.

The Tailevu man had already begun his PRC preparations prior to the festive season.

However, his termination has opened the door for Whippy and Nauga to be exposed to another level. Meanwhile, in a statement released by the FRU yesterday, a fitness test and trials will be conducted on February 6 to name the final Warriors team.

Among the players named are former Flying Fijians prop Graham Dewes, New Zealand-based Maritino Nemani and Simeli Koniferedi.